Why localization matters?
The difference between a game that thrives in global markets and one that struggles often comes down to localization. Players expectĀ seamless gameplayĀ in their native language ā one where dialogues, humour, instructions and cultural references feelĀ authentic and natural.
Hereās why investing in professional video game localization is essential:
- Enhance player immersionĀ ā poorly translated content disrupts the gaming experience and can drive players away.
- Boost global revenueĀ ā countries like Japan, South Korea, Germany and China are gaming powerhouses, but require culturally adapted content.
- Ensure market complianceĀ ā some markets have strict regulations regarding game content, age ratings and cultural sensitivities.
- Strengthen brand reputationĀ ā a well-localized game builds player trust and enhances brand loyalty.
AĀ successful localization strategyĀ ensures that your gameĀ feels like it was originally designed for each target audience, rather than being a simple translation.
Why choose Skrivanek?
Industry expertise
OurĀ game localization specialistsĀ are experienced linguists, gamers and cultural experts.
ISO-certified quality
We adhere to strictĀ quality assurance protocols, ensuringĀ consistent and accurate translations.
Seamless project management
AĀ dedicated project managerĀ coordinates all aspects of yourĀ video game localization project, providing aĀ single point of contact.
Flexible and scalable solutions
Whether you needĀ localization for an indie gameĀ orĀ an AAA title, we adapt to yourĀ unique requirements.
Confidentiality & data security
We handle allĀ game files, scripts and assetsĀ withĀ strict security protocolsĀ toĀ protect your intellectual property.
Our satisfied clients
What We Offer ā Comprehensive Game Localization Services
š® Dialogue & narrative adaptation
Character dialogue and storytelling are the backbone of player immersion. Simply translating text isnāt enough ā tone, humour, personality and emotionsĀ must be preserved and adapted for each audience.
- We analyse theĀ charactersā personalities, relationships and story arcsĀ to ensure their voices remain authentic in every language.
- Context matters: a warriorās battle cry should be as powerful in German as it is in Japanese, while a rogueās sarcastic quips need to land properly in French.
- We adaptĀ quest descriptions, mission briefings and loreĀ so that the story flows naturally across all target markets.
- Game-specific terminology andĀ genre conventionsĀ (e.g., fantasy, sci-fi, historical fiction) are accurately localized to maintain genre integrity.
š¹ Example: A humorous, pun-heavy dialogue in English might need a complete rewrite in another language to ensure it remains witty and engaging.
š Cultural adaptation
Every region hasĀ unique cultural expectations, humour, taboos and preferences. What works in one country might be confusing, or even offensive, in another. We ensure that your game feelsĀ authentic and relatableĀ in every market.
- Character names, locations and references: some names may need to be adapted to avoid unintended meanings or to fit local naming conventions.
- Humour and idioms: many jokes and wordplays donāt translate directly. Our team recreates humour in ways that resonate with local players.
- Symbolism and gestures: hand signs, imagery and cultural symbols can carry different meanings in various regions.
- Censorship and compliance: some markets (e.g., China, Germany) have strict content regulations that require adjustments to violence, political references and religious themes.
š¹ Example: A gesture thatās harmless in one country might be offensive in another, requiring visual edits or alternative animations.
š¤ Voiceover
Voice acting is one of the mostĀ powerful storytelling toolsĀ in gaming. Poorly localized voiceover can ruin immersion, while high-quality voiceovers enhance character depth and engagement.
- Lip-syncing and timing adjustmentsĀ ensure that dialogue matches character animations naturally.
- We preserve theĀ tone, energy and emotionĀ of each performance while adapting to different languagesā speech patterns.
- Multiple delivery styles: whether you need dramatic cinematic dialogue, energetic battle cries or comedic banter, we tailor the performance to fit your gameās tone.
- Recording in state-of-the-art studiosĀ with experienced audio engineers to ensure crisp, high-quality output.
š¹ Example: A deep, commanding voice in the original game must have a similarly powerful presence in every localized version.
š UI/UX localization
A gameāsĀ user interface (UI) and user experience (UX)Ā must be as intuitive and seamless in every language as it is in the original.
- We translate and adaptĀ menus, HUD elements, tooltips, inventory descriptions and in-game notifications.
- Text expansion/contraction: some languages take up more space than others. We adjust UI elements to prevent overlapping text or design inconsistencies.
- Font and typography optimization: certain languages (e.g., Chinese, Arabic) require different fonts and right-to-left text alignment.
- Button and control labelling: ensuring that key mappings and action prompts remain clear and natural for players in different regions.
š¹ Example: German text tends to be longer than English, so UI spacing must be adjusted accordingly to maintain a clean and readable design.
šļø Subtitling and audio syncing
For games with heavy dialogue or cinematic sequences, preciseĀ subtitling and audio syncingĀ are essential for player immersion.
- We createĀ time-coded, properly formatted subtitlesĀ that sync naturally with the spoken dialogue.
- Lip-sync localizationĀ ensures thatĀ audio fits mouth movementsĀ for natural speech flow.
- Speaker differentiation: proper use of formatting, colours or icons to indicate which character is speaking.
- Subtitles adapted for readability: font size, positioning and contrast are optimised to ensure a comfortable reading experience.
š¹ Example: In an action-packed cutscene, subtitles must be clear, well-timed and positioned to avoid blocking critical visual elements.
š Localization quality assurance (LQA)
Even the best localization work must undergoĀ rigorous testingĀ to ensure it functions flawlessly in the final game build.
- Linguistic testing: we verify grammar, spelling, terminology consistency and cultural accuracy.
- Functional testing: ensuring that localized text fits within the UI and does not break game mechanics.
- Audio-visual synchronization testing: checking that voiceovers align properly with character animations.
- Gameplay immersion testing: ensuring that the localized version delivers the same emotional and gameplay impact as the original.
š¹ Example: A poorly formatted subtitle that covers an important action prompt could frustrate players and disrupt gameplay.
š Multilingual localization
We provideĀ game localization services in 110+ languages, covering 200+ language combinations, allowing you to reach players worldwide.
- European, Asian and Middle Eastern markets: from Spanish and French to Chinese, Japanese and Arabic.
- Emerging gaming markets: localizing for regions with growing gaming audiences, such as Brazil, India and Indonesia.
- Regional language variants: adapting content forĀ European vs. Latin American Spanish, British vs. American English, and other key distinctions.
š¹ Example: A game localized for Brazil will useĀ Brazilian Portuguese, while a game for Portugal will requireĀ European PortugueseĀ with different grammar and vocabulary choices.
š§ Technical integration and emerging technologies
OurĀ game localization processĀ supports the latest gaming technologies and development workflows.
- VR & AR localization: adapting virtual reality and augmented reality games for different languages while maintaining immersion.
- Cloud gaming optimization: ensuring smooth localization forĀ cloud-based gaming platformsĀ with real-time streaming.
- AI & machine learning adaptation: supportingĀ AI-driven dialogue systems and procedural contentĀ in multiple languages.
- Compatibility across platforms: PC, consoles, mobile and cloud-based gaming environments.
š¹ Example: In a VR game, localized text placement must ensure that players can comfortably read subtitles without breaking immersion.
A tailored approach to every game
At Skrivanek, we donāt offer a one-size-fits-all localization process. Every game has uniqueĀ storytelling mechanics, technical requirements and player expectations, and we adapt our services accordingly.
ā Scalable solutions for indie studios and AAA developers
ā Custom workflows designed to meet your budget and timeline
ā Agile and flexible approach to integrate with your development pipeline
š® Your game deserves to be played by the world. Letās make it happen.
How it works ā Our process
Consultation and strategy development
- We analyse your gameās content, genre and target audience.
- We define the scope of localization:Ā text, UI, audio, cultural adaptation, QA testing.
Translation and linguistic adaptation
- OurĀ expert linguistsĀ translate and adapt scripts, UI and in-game text.
- We ensure thatĀ cultural references, humour and toneĀ remain intact.
Voiceover, subtitling and audio localization
- ProfessionalĀ native-language voice artistsĀ bring characters to life.
- Subtitling and audioĀ are synchronised for natural gameplay.
Quality assurance and localization testing (LQA)
- Linguistic testingĀ ensures fluency and clarity.
- Functional testingĀ ensures properĀ text display, UI integration and compatibility.
Delivery and post-localization support
- Final localized versions are delivered, ready for integration.
- We provideĀ ongoing supportĀ for updates, DLCs and expansions.
Your game is now ready to take on the world!
